What Every Ontarian Should Know About Visiting BC in the Fall
Ontario might have the edge when it comes to brilliant red maples, but British Columbia brings a different kind of magic in the fall. Think golden larch forests, crisp ocean air, quiet hiking trails, and fewer crowds at the province’s most iconic spots.
If you're considering a trip west this season, here’s what to expect and how to make the most of it.
Fall weather is milder than you think
While Ontario often sees early frosts and even snow by late fall, Vancouver tends to stay temperate. You’ll want a light rain jacket and layers, but you won’t need to pack winter gear. And yes, it might drizzle, but the lush greenery and misty mountain views make it part of the experience.
Over the last decade, September and October have become a great deal warmer than you might imagine Vancouver would be. A light jacket is pretty standard in the later fall, but you’ll find you won’t even need it for much of the earlier months.
Fewer crowds, more freedom
Fall is shoulder season in BC, which means smaller crowds at places like Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, the Sea to Sky Gondola, and the Vancouver Aquarium. You’ll be able to take your time, grab better photos, and find availability at restaurants and hotels that book up fast in summer. Take advantage.
Scenic drives and quieter hikes
This is prime time for a road trip along the Sea to Sky Highway or into the Fraser Valley. Fall colours peak in late September and October, and spots like Whistler, Manning Park, and the Sunshine Coast come alive in a quieter, more peaceful way.
One of our favourite things to do in the fall is hike the Stawamus Chief, an incredible rockface in Squamish. Near the end of the hike, you’ll use chains and ropes to pull yourself up some steep portions. It’s a couple of hours of sweat that’s well worth the payoff.
Harvest festivals and seasonal treats
Fall in BC means apple picking, pumpkin patches, and farmers’ markets overflowing with fresh local produce. Granville Island’s market is a must, and if you're around for Thanksgiving, BC’s farm-to-table dining scene delivers. Many restaurants feature seasonal tasting menus worth planning a night around.
Capilano is extra beautiful this time of year
If you’ve only seen Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in summer photos, visiting in fall is a whole new experience. The forest canopy looks incredible when the sun sets this time of year, and the crisp air makes walking across the bridge and through the Treetops Adventure even more refreshing. It’s also one of the best times to enjoy the quieter, peaceful side of the park without the usual summer rush.
Whether you’re looking for a laid-back getaway or an adventure-filled escape, BC delivers in the fall. Ontarians who make the trip west will be rewarded with natural beauty, great food, and a quieter, more local experience of one of Canada’s most stunning provinces. Pack your layers, bring your appetite, and get ready to fall in love with the coast.
